Can I Track A Parcel Real Time?
The growth and evolution of technology have seen the power of consumers grow exponentially in the last few years – and this includes the ability to track and monitor packages, letters, and parcels from door to door.
This is a huge advantage for companies who are looking to boost customer satisfaction, as well as for individuals who are sending packages to friends, families, and loved ones, or who are returning items to businesses.
You may be wondering, however, just how accurate this parcel-tracking technology can be, and whether you can really track a parcel in real-time as it travels from place to place.
We took a closer look at all you need to know about real-time parcel tracking, as well as the best options for your peace of mind.
What Is Parcel Tracking?
Parcel tracking is the process of monitoring the progress of an item that is being shipped from one location to another.
This could include anything from a package sent by post, to a letter delivered via courier service.
It’s important to note that not all countries have parcel tracking available, so if you’re planning on shipping something overseas, make sure you check with your local postal services before making any arrangements.
The Benefits Of Real-Time Parcel Tracking
There are many benefits associated with real-time parcel tracking. For example, you’ll be able to see exactly when your parcel will arrive at its destination, which means you won’t miss out on any deliveries.
You’ll also be able to keep tabs on your package while it’s en route, meaning you’ll never lose sight of where it is.
Another benefit of real-time parcel tracking is that you’ll always know what time your delivery will arrive, and this can be particularly important if the items that you are sending are particularly precious or valuable.
Real-time parcel tracking is also useful if you’re returning an item to a business. In some cases, you’ll receive a notification when your return has been processed, allowing you to confirm that everything went smoothly.
And if there was a problem with your order, you’ll be notified immediately, so you can take action right away.
This also reduces the risk that unscrupulous business owners will try to take advantage of customers.
Real-time parcel tracking isn’t only beneficial for businesses, either. Individuals often use it to track the progress of gifts they’ve ordered online – this is especially important if you have purchased a gift for a big event!
How Does Real-Time Parcel Tracing Work?
To understand how real-time parcel tracking works, we first need to explain how traditional methods of tracking work.
When you send an item through the mail, it typically takes anywhere between three and seven days for it to reach its destination.
If you want to find out when your parcel will arrive, you’ll usually have to simply wait, as there is no way to track its current progress or location.
However, with real-time parcel tracking, you’ll be able to get updates on your parcel’s progress during the course of its journey.
The system will automatically notify you whenever your parcel arrives at its destination, giving you the chance to arrange for someone else to pick up your package, or to ensure that you are home to collect and receive it.
You can choose to set up alerts for different stages of your journey, such as when your parcel leaves your house, passes through customs, and finally reaches its final destination.
Once you’ve received these notifications, you’ll be able to view them in your account dashboard, along with other information about your shipment.
The most common tool used in parcel tracking is GPS. This technology allows you to pinpoint the exact location of your parcel at any given moment and works by using satellites orbiting above our planet.
It uses radio waves to determine the distance from each satellite and then combines this data to calculate your parcel’s position.
GPS tracking is very accurate, but it does require an internet connection. As a result, you may not be able to access it if you don’t have access to Wi-Fi, or if your phone doesn’t support mobile data.
It should also be noted that not every country uses GPS tracking to the same extent or level of reliability, so if you’re looking to ship something internationally, you may need to look into alternative options.
What Are Some Other Ways To Track Your Package?
While GPS tracking is undoubtedly the best option, it’s not the only one. There are many other ways to track parcels, including:
- Barcode Scanning
Barcode scanning is another method of tracking packages. You simply scan the barcodes printed on your items, which will allow you to see where your parcel is located at all times.
However, this process requires you to have a scanner, and it won’t always work if your package contains multiple items.
- RFID Tracking
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tracking is yet another way to track parcels, though this tends to be less commonly used for standard packages.
It works by attaching small tags to your items, which contain unique identifying numbers. These tags are then scanned by scanners installed at various points throughout the shipping process.
This method has the advantage of being able to identify multiple items within a single package, and it’s more reliable than barcode scanning.
However, it is not usually suitable for tracking international shipments, as it relies on readers installed at specific locations.
- Mobile Apps
If you own a smartphone, you might already know that there are several apps available that can help you track your parcel.
For example, Google Maps offers a ‘My Location’ feature that lets you track the location of your parcel via GPS. Similarly, Apple’s Find My iPhone app can do the same thing.
How To Improve The Chances Of Successful Delivery
Being able to track your parcel is important for ensuring that you are given the peace of mind and security that you need, but there are a number of other things you can do to improve the chances that your parcel will arrive at the intended destination safely.
These include:
- Double-Check The Address
It’s easy to make mistakes when entering addresses, especially if they are unfamiliar to you.
Make sure that you double-check them before sending your item off, and ensure that you enter the address correctly – this can reduce the risk that your parcel will go missing in transit.
- Check Any Charges Or Fees
If you are planning to ship your parcel internationally, it is a good idea to double-check whether there are any fees or charges that may be incurred – these could add up quickly, and they may even prevent your parcel from arriving at its final destination.
- Use An International Shipping Service
There are many different companies out there that offer international shipping services, and each of them has its own pros and cons.
If you want to get the most value for money, it’s worth checking out some of the larger players in the industry, such as DHL Express, FedEx, TNT, UPS, etc.
Final Thoughts
The ability to track your parcel in real-time offers you a number of advantages, including peace of mind, safety, and convenience.
As long as you choose the best courier for your needs, you should be able to rest assured knowing that your parcel is safe and secure – as well as being able to track it from door to door!
